There are no specific guidelines to prevent testicular cancer because the cause is unknown. Although testicular cancer can affect men at any age, it is most common in those under 35 years old. Some risk factors such as family history or genetics cannot be changed. Fortunately, there are also risk factors which can be modified. These include:

Treating medical conditions—If you have a chronic condition, be sure to follow your treatment plan. Some conditions that increase your risk of testicular cancer include Klinefelter syndrome and HIV infection. The most common risk factor, undescended testes, can be surgically corrected to reduce your risk.

Quitting smoking—Smoking negatively affects every cell in the body. Quitting smoking is an important step in preventing cancer. The sooner smoking is stopped, the sooner the body can start to heal. Talk to your doctor about the options available to help you successfully quit.

Avoiding drugs—Marijuana use is associated with an increased risk. Although no direct connection has been found, avoiding marijuana and other drugs may help reduce your risk.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.